SISTAIN's Non-Toxic Sunscreen Guide
Your go-to reference for non-toxic, effective, and planet-conscious sun protection
Backed by EWG insights, ingredient research, and real-world reviews
A Personal Note from Our Founder
At 6 months pregnant, I went in for a full dermatology body scan after noticing a small bump on my chest that appeared post-sunburn while in Florida. I’d assumed it was just post-burn irritation—after all, I’m only 35—but that little bump turned out to be basal cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer.
A few weeks after the biopsy, I had it scraped off and treated—but the experience shifted how I think about sun care completely. I’ve always been consistent about wearing SPF on my face (I use Josh Rosebrook’s nutrient day cream with SPF tint, which has kept my skin protected without irritation), but this experience reminded me that sun protection needs to go beyond the face.
I grew up playing and teaching tennis, often in scoop-neck tops and sports bras, and never thought about the damage accumulating on my chest, shoulders, and neck. That sunburn in Florida was a wake-up call—not just to apply sunscreen more diligently, but to really know what’s in the sunscreen I use. It’s not just about SPF—it’s about clean, trustworthy ingredients.
So this guide is personal. It’s built from my own research, my own health scare, and my commitment to sharing what I’ve learned with you—especially if you're navigating wellness for yourself, your family, or your future self.
—Jaclyn Tracy, Founder of SISTAIN
What to Look for in a Sunscreen
Criteria |
Why it Matters |
Mineral sun filters only |
Choose non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for safe, broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection. Avoid chemical filters like oxybenzone and octinoxate. |
|
SPF 30–50 |
Enough real-world protection; SPF 30+ is essential. Avoid misleadingly high SPFs. |
|
No endocrine disruptors |
Skip products with fragrance, parabens, PEGs, silicones, or seed oils . |
|
EWG Verified® or low-hazard |
Ensures transparency, safety, and rigorous ingredient standards. |
|
Reef-safe & water-resistant |
Important for outdoor/swim use; look for 40–90 min resistance. |
|
Sheer, wearable texture |
Encourages daily use and reapplication—critical for real protection. |
What to Avoid
Chemical filters: Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Homosalate, Avobenzone
Artificial fragrance or “parfum”: Can mask harmful additives like phthalates
PEGs, parabens, silicones, seed oils
Spray sunscreens: Risk inhalation and uneven coverage
SPF > 50: May give false sense of security without added benefit
Top 5 Clean Sunscreens
1. Primally Pure
Sun Cream SPF 30, Stick SPF 25, Lip SPF 15
Why it’s great: Non-nano zinc, grass-fed tallow, hydrating but sheer—no white cast.
Reviewers say: “Goes on sheer... not that standard stark white.” —Wellness With Kaelyn
Watch-outs: Tallow-based claims face skepticism in some dermatology circles.
- BEST FOR: Sensitive skin, clean-ingredient purists, families.
2. Sky & Sol
SPF 30 & 50 Mineral Sunscreens
Why it’s great: Non-nano zinc, tallow, beeswax, vitamin E—lightweight, long-lasting.
Reviewers say: “Nourishing... great for kids and reef-safe.”
Watch-outs: Some don’t love the natural scent; a few mention difficulty removing.
- BEST FOR: Outdoor enthusiasts, eco-lovers, tallow-based skincare fans.
Use Code JACLYNT for 10% off Sky & Sol
3. Babo Botanicals
SPF 50 Clear Zinc Lotion & Stick
Why it’s great: EWG-Verified®, fragrance-free, zinc-based with sensitive-skin focus.
Reviewers say: “No white cast... works for eczema-prone kids.”
Watch-outs: The stick version is slightly thicker, though still highly rated.
- BEST FOR: Babies, toddlers, allergy-prone skin.
4. Thinksport / Thinkbaby
SPF 30–50 Clear Zinc
Why it’s great: EWG-Verified®, no fragrance, PEGs, or parabens. Affordable & effective.
Reviewers say: “Ideal if kids are in water... budget-friendly reef-safe.”
Watch-outs: Slight white cast and thicker consistency.
- BEST FOR: Families, athletes, outdoor adventures.
5. Stream2Sea
Tinted SPF 45 Lotion & EcoStick SPF 35
Why it’s great: EWG-Verified®, reef-safe, biodegradable, with eco-conscious packaging.
Reviewers say: “Most reef safe... excellent burn prevention during snorkeling."
Watch-outs: Some formulas use titanium dioxide only; mixed consumer feedback on texture.
- BEST FOR: Beach days, divers, sustainability-first consumers.
Clean Sunscreen Comparison Guide
BRAND |
SPF |
FORMAT |
TEXTURE & REVIEWS SUMMARY |
WHY IT'S NON-TOXIC |
|
Primally Pure |
15–30 + lip | Cream, stick, balm | Sheer, moisturizing, natural fans love it, some skeptical about claims | No seed oils, fragrances, parabens, or chemical filters, non-nano zinc + tallow base |
| Sky & Sol | 30, 50 | Cream | Lightweight & non-greasy, eco-focused but some mixed scent feedback | Edible-grade ingredients (tallow, jojoba, beeswax), reef safe, free from synthetics |
| Babo Botanicals | 50 | Lotion, stick | Non-irritating, blends well, great for eczema/sensitive skin |
 clear zinc oxide, hypoallergenic, no fragrance or oxybenzone |
|
Thinksport/
Thinkbaby |
30–50 | Lotion, stick | Affordable, water-resistant, slightly thick texture |
 20% non-nano zinc, no parabens, phthalates, or synthetic fragrances |
| Stream2Sea | 35–45 | Tinted lotion, stick | Barely noticeable, breathable, eco-love but some mixed ratings |
 reef-safe, biodegradable packaging, no oxybenzone or nano particles |
How to Apply Properly
- Reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming/sweating
- Layer with clothing, hats, and shade for full UV defense
- Don’t forget lips, ears, hands, scalp, and feet!
Final Takeaway
Whether you want:
-
Ultra-natural options like Primally Pure and Sky & Sol
-
EWG-Verified favorites like Babo Botanicals, ThinkSport, or Stream2Sea
...this guide ensures you’re protected with clean, non-toxic, and skin-safe SPF—backed by both experts and everyday users.
- Clean sunscreen is not just a beauty choice—it’s a health decision . Whether you’re in your 20s, 30s, or parenting little ones, prioritizing ingredient safety, consistency of use, and full-body coverage (not just your face!) is crucial.
This guide empowers you with five trusted, non-toxic SPF brands—so you can confidently choose protection that aligns with your values and works in real life.
